Two people, including a police officer, have died after being struck by stray bullets during a violent incident in Arua City.
The deceased officer has been identified as Police Constable William Wadri, attached to Ayivu East Division. He succumbed to gunshot injuries at Arua Regional Referral Hospital in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026, following surgery to remove a bullet lodged in his stomach. A civilian identified only as Otubo died instantly after being hit by a stray bullet at the scene.
According to police, the incident occurred in Ojepi Cell, Aliba Ward, Ayivu East Division, as officers responded to a domestic violence case. A man identified as Scandle Jurua allegedly strangled his wife, Gloria Opiru, to death at around 4:00 a.m. on Friday following a domestic dispute.
Tensions escalated after relatives of the deceased woman learned of her death and reportedly launched retaliatory attacks. At least 15 houses were set ablaze, and several properties were destroyed.
Police intervened to contain the violence and fired live bullets into the air to disperse the hostile mob. During the operation, the two victims were struck by stray bullets.
West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson Josephine Angucia condemned the violence, warning that mob justice undermines investigations and leads to unnecessary loss of life. She said investigations into the incident are ongoing and that all individuals found culpable will be arrested and prosecuted.
Meanwhile, Marlon Avutia, the Mayor of Ayivu Division, appealed to residents to refrain from revenge attacks and resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means. He described the violence as unacceptable and urged the community to prioritise peace and coexistence.
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